As BSVI emission norms are mandated in India in 2020, Toyota Kirloskar plans not to introduce a Corolla upgrade. The way things stand, such a decision has a greater bearing. It puts a stop to the expected rebadged/re-engineered Corolla variant for Maruti Suzuki in India.
As the understanding between Toyota and Suzuki stand, Toyota will help Suzuki localise its hybrid technology for cars MSIL sells in India to meet 2022 CAFE norms. The global partnership between both auto manufacturers warrants vehicle sharing between Maruti Suzuki and Toyota, starting later in 2019. The Corolla, which was expected to be part of the car sharing proposed plan is now unlikely to become reality.
The C-segment sedan, though a precious space, proves to be limited owing to its price tag. Just last month, Toyota Corolla sales were down 40 percent at 2,783 units sold. The month also saw sales of Honda Civic, which made its comeback to India. Opening scores look positive at 2291 units. The segment also sees Elantra and Octavia compete. And while, the segment does get everyone’s attention, sales volumes aren’t volume boosters.
As the future moves to cleaner norms, prior plans of localising Toyota Corolla bits, and introducing a hybrid don’t seem to be the path to follow for the company, and plans for a Toyota Corolla BSVI compliant car are being shelved.
Keeping in mind the partnership with Suzuki, and shared cars, Toyota would be able to meet these norms basis Baleno, Vitara Brezza, Ertiga and Ciaz from MSIL. Inversely, Toyota will help Suzuki localise hybrid tech in India so MSIL meets CAFE norms.
Plans until the latest development had been for Suzuki Motor Corporation and Toyota Motors to share cars. Now, plans for Maruti to sell a Corolla variant via its Nexa dealership network will need to be revised. Working together is aimed to help Toyota increase sales and reach in India. Toyota will manufacture Brezza, Baleno, Ertiga and Ciaz at its Indian plant. The rebadged version will be sold in India, and exports to Africa are part of the plan.
